Lawell said: "This is the first time this has happened and it was unauthorised by St Mirren or Strathclyde Police. Celtic will be taking the matter up privately with St Mirren."
However, it is likely that his request will fall on deaf ears. Saints chairman Stewart Gilmour said yesterday that while he did not ask for the statement to be made, he felt it was fair comment and was glad that his club did not have a similar problem.
Sadly, the SFA will probably turn a blind eye to the Old Firm and their antics once again and will no doubt punish Saints instead!